~ A critical look at new media's evolving role in IMC

Tag Archives: social media

As 2012 comes to an end, let’s reflect on some of the big stories that took social media by storm this year. From Gangham style to Sandy to the election, they all had one important thing in common: content.

“Content marketing” was one of many buzzwords for 2012, and it will only grow in 2013. As brands try to reach consumers in increasingly fragmented world, it will become vital to share engaging content across platforms. Gone are the days when an ad was an ad, now marketers need to learn how to leverage new media to post a blog that links to Facebook that reinforces a pictographic that is shared on Twitter. And oh yeah, take an Instagram so you can Pin it and share it on G+. Phew! It sounds exhausting, but it’s an important strategic effort that will lead to more integrated marketing communications to deliver a unified message and consumer experience.

Tomorrow is Election Day 2012. After months of being bombarded by political ads (we sympathize with you Abigael) it all comes down to tomorrow. In the last hours leading up to the election, President Obama and Governor Romney are frantically crisscrossing the country in hopes of swaying those last coveted undecided voters. At the same time, thousands of us are taking part in our own rallying cries, but from the comfort of our couches. Whether you prefer to tweet, upload or update, one thing’s for certain: new media is changing the face of politics forever.

Social media has empowered passionate voices on both sides of the debate to share their opinions and mobilize in mass online communities. From fundraising by text message to watching stump speeches on YouTube, new media offers endless ways to connect, engage, and build online communities with real-world impact. Just check out some of the stats on social media this time around:

So, no matter if you vote red, blue, green or tie-dye, tomorrow is a chance for us all to exercise our right to cast a ballot for the future of our country. And for those of you who have the insatiable urge to make your choice publicly known, feel free to partake in Gum Election 2012.

Today is Halloween, and also the end of Zombie Preparedness Month, so its only fitting that we address how the use of new media is helping us ward off these flesh-eating creeps. The U.K.-based price comparison website Confused.com. created this handy guide to identifying zombies of all types. Thank goodness for the internet and stay safe out there tonight!